The Indian Navy displayed its operational prowess and maritime capabilities through a spectacular ‘Operational Demonstration’ at Shangumugham beach, Thiruvananthapuram on December 3, 2025. The mega event brought alive the Navy’s formidable combat capabilities, technological excellence, and operational readiness, while reflecting the nation’s growing maritime strength and self-reliance. The President was hosted by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff. Upon arrival, a 150 men ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented to the Chief Guest.

Amongst various dignitaries, Governor of Kerala Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, and Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan witnessed the event along with other senior Central and State Government officials, military dignitaries, and the local populace.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Navy Day is a celebration of selfless service and supreme sacrifice made by naval personnel in defence of our motherland. She stated that people of India are grateful to the men and women of the Indian Navy for their service to the nation. She commended them for their professionalism, passion and patriotism.

The President said that the Indian Ocean Region is a highly strategic and critical maritime space. It is a conduit for global energy supplies and trade. As India is positioned at its centre, we bear a special responsibility. We are committed to the idea of the oceans remaining open, stable and rules-based. As per our vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, India’s approach is collaborative rather than competitive. Our country is promoting shared awareness, capacity building, and the peaceful use of the seas.

The President said that modernisation, as well as development and adaptation of new technologies, is crucial for the combat readiness of any armed force. She was happy to note that the Indian Navy is demonstrating capability to design and build complex platforms in India itself. She expressed confidence that the Indian Navy will continue to develop indigenous technologies and contribute to achieving the goal of “Viksit Bharat”.

The Op Demo featured a thrilling display of coordinated manoeuvres by frontline platforms symbolising the Navy’s ability to deliver power and precision across the maritime spectrum. More than twenty Naval ships and submarines, including indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, along with a formidable array of air assets and elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS) presented a spectacular display of Naval strength and operational excellence.

Additionally, Hornpipe dance by the Sea Cadet Corps, cultural performance, and Continuity Drill by Naval personnel undertaking fast sequenced drills also enthralled the spectators. The event culminated with a Beating Retreat by Indian Naval band and traditional sunset ceremony with illumination of Naval ships.

The Navy Day marks an important day in the annals of Indian history commemorating the Indian Navy’s defining role in ‘Operation Trident’ during the 1971 war. Over the decades, the Indian Navy has grown from strength to strength, and has stood firm and resilient, continuously evolving to meet the emerging challenges to the country’s maritime interests. Building on this legacy, under the guiding vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Indian Navy is moving towards rapid modernisation of force and has fully transformed from a Buyer’s Navy to a Builder’s Navy.

Op Demo 2025 underscored the Navy’s maritime excellence and its steadfast role as a reliable force that inspires confidence, builds partnerships, and upholds collective security in the oceans; a role that aligns with India’s commitment to a free, open and rule-based maritime order, anchored in the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).